2nd Corinthians 4:7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. 8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.
This passage of scripture teaches us that through the power of God working in us, the difficulties we sometimes face in life can be steadfastly overcome, and instead of being daunting hurdles, they can be as stepping stones to climb to a higher round on "Jacob's ladder". The Bible makes it plain to us, that in this world we shall have tribulation, but because Christ has overcome the world, we also may live victoriously, triumphing over any and every situation that may come our way. This sacred truth was vividly portrayed in the earlier years of Joseph, who suffered tremendously on account of the malicious designs of his brethren, who, after he had brought them food and drink one day, ill treated him in return, for they stripped him of his coat of many bright colors, and put him in a pit for some time, until it should be determined what they should do with him.
But finally, after some deliberation, it was decided to sell him into slavery, a person's worst nightmare, and we can imagine that it was with much pleading and tears that Joseph begged them not to commit this grave sin. However the transaction went through, and he was then taken and resold to an Egyptian named Potiphar, who made him steward of all his goods. But Joseph's troubles were now beginning, for in the process of time, Potiphar's wife tried to seduce him into adultery, and after he had refused on several occasions, she then falsely accused him of trying to rape her, a charge which ultimately landed him in prison for several years.
It is worthy of note that Joseph suffered for doing what is right, but throughout all of his dire circumstances, the Bible speaks of the one thing that caused him to resilient, by which he was able to maintain his faith and his sanity. Let's read:
Genesis 39:21 But the Lord was with Joseph, and shewed him mercy, and gave him favour in the sight of the keeper of the prison.
This one fact is what made all the difference in Joseph's experience, and the perplexing issues he faced and overcame by the grace of God, are full of instruction for us, living in the 21st century. Sometimes there are grave situations that come upon us unexpectedly, which may take a turn for the worse, and it is in these times of peril, that we are often tempted to question where God is, but like Joseph, the Lord has promised to be with us when we face situations beyond our control. We are told in the Bible that the devil went to make war with God's people, and even though there are sometimes casualties in any given war, yet we can be more than conquerors through Him that loves us. When we are buffeted on every side, and the days seem dark and dreary, let us always remember that the Eternal God is our refuge, and in the fullness of time, His power will be displayed in behalf of those who continue to trust in Him.
We therefore end with a passage of scripture which should be a source of strength and inspiration to those who are hurting, and if we keep our minds lifted heavenward, God will work out His perfect plan in the right way and at the right time. Let's read:
Deuteronomy 33:25 Thy shoes shall be iron and brass; and as thy days, so shall thy strength be. 26 There is none like unto the God of Jeshurun, who rideth upon the heaven in thy help, and in his excellency on the sky. 27 The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms: and he shall thrust out the enemy from before thee; and shall say, Destroy them.
May God add His blessing to the reading of His word. "Good night" and God bless!